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On October 6, 2025, the National Action Network (NAN), led by civil rights icon Rev. Al Sharpton, hosted its annual Triumph Awards at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City. The star-studded evening honored trailblazers who have used their platforms to champion justice, equity, and cultural transformation. With a backdrop of elegance and activism, the event brought together leaders from entertainment, media, and community advocacy to celebrate courage and commitment in the face of social challenges.
Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds – The 13-time Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, and producer was recognized for his decades-long influence on music and his commitment to uplifting Black artistry. His work has shaped generations of R&B and pop, and his philanthropic efforts have supported youth and education initiatives.
Ari Melber – The Emmy-winning MSNBC host of The Beat with Ari Melber was honored for his incisive journalism and dedication to truth-telling in an era of political polarization. Melber’s coverage has consistently highlighted civil rights issues and held power to account.
Chelsea Maddox-Dorsey – As CEO of A Wonder Media Company, Maddox-Dorsey has been a force in diversifying media ownership and content. Her leadership has opened doors for underrepresented voices in broadcasting and digital storytelling.
Vincent Bohanan – Founder and director of the Sound of Victory Choir, Bohanan was celebrated for his contributions to gospel music and his role in nurturing young talent through faith and community engagement.
The evening featured stirring performances that blended artistry with activism. Vincent Bohanan and the Sound of Victory Choir delivered a soul-lifting set that brought the audience to its feet. Babyface, in a rare live appearance, performed a medley of his greatest hits, reminding attendees of the emotional power of music to unite and heal. Additional musical guests and spoken word artists added depth and resonance to the ceremony, though full performance details were not publicly disclosed.
Rev. Al Sharpton opened the ceremony with a powerful address, emphasizing the urgency of defending civil rights in a time when voting rights, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives are under attack. “The Triumph Awards has been an opportunity for NAN to recognize those who are brave enough to use their channels to fight for justice across the globe,” Sharpton said. “More than ever, we need to recognize those with the courage to speak up against the challenges before America right now.”
Each honoree echoed this sentiment in their acceptance speeches. Ari Melber spoke about the role of media in preserving democracy and truth. Chelsea Maddox-Dorsey highlighted the importance of representation in shaping narratives and empowering communities. Babyface reflected on the responsibility of artists to inspire change, while Vincent Bohanan called for continued investment in youth and faith-based initiatives.
Founded by NAN, the Triumph Awards have become a signature event in the civil rights calendar, held annually each fall. The awards honor individuals across entertainment, media, clergy, and community leadership who use their influence to elevate the fight for justice. Past honorees include Vice President Kamala Harris, Tyler Perry, Angela Bassett, Questlove, Leslie Odom Jr., Queen Latifah, Spike Lee, Gladys Knight, and Robert De Niro.
The awards are more than a celebration—they are a call to action. This year’s ceremony followed Rev. Sharpton’s March on Wall Street, commemorating the 1963 March on Washington. That demonstration urged corporate America to uphold its promises to DEI and reinvest in Black and Brown communities. The Triumph Awards served as a continuation of that momentum, spotlighting individuals who are actively shaping a more equitable future.
The 2025 Triumph Awards were a testament to the enduring power of voice, vision, and values. In a time of social reckoning, the event reminded attendees that progress is possible when culture-shapers stand firm in their convictions. From the red carpet to the final ovation, the evening was a celebration of triumph—not just of individual achievement, but of collective resilience.
As Rev. Sharpton closed the night, he left the audience with a challenge: “Let this not be just a ceremony, but a movement. Let us leave here more committed than ever to the cause of justice.”
